Headlines: E-LAW in the News, Autumn 2004

Halting Harmful Fuel Emissions in Pakistan

Oil samples

September 6, 2004 – The Daily Nation (Pakistan) reports that substandard and adulterated engine oil in Lahore’s local markets is wreaking havoc on vehicle engines and filling the environment with polluting emissions. Attorney Hassaan Ghazali brought national attention to Pakistan’s adulterated oil problem after collaborating with E-LAW U.S. scientists to test oil at filling stations in Lahore.

Hassaan and his colleagues are now using their data to initiate legal action to require that motor oil in Pakistan be sold only in pre-packaged containers, a measure implemented by the Supreme Court of India that has drastically cut emissions from two- and three-wheeled vehicles in that country.

The Clean Air Initiative for Asian Cities, a project of the World Bank and other international donors, has posted the results of Hassaan’s environmental monitoring project on their website. This work was made possible by the Alice C. Tyler Perpetual Trust.

Advocates in Liberia Call for Halt to Iron Ore Shipment

September 6, 2004 – The News (Liberia) reports that the Association of Environmental Lawyers of Liberia (Green Advocates) and other groups are asking the Supreme Court of Liberia to block shipments of stockpiled iron ore, destined for China. Green Advocates alleges the shipments are being conducted without public knowledge, information, or accountability. Although the Supreme Court has issued a “stay order” until the case can be heard, Green Advocates alleges the government is ignoring that order.

Green Advocates is Liberia`s first public interest environmental law organization. E-LAW U.S. has collaborated with Green Advocates since 2001 to protect natural resources, public health, and human rights.